Bebe Thomas

Update

2007-06-21T07:22:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! I can't believe I haven't posted in over a month! Remember the promotion I have been talking about at the day job? Well, I got the job. It's a long, sordid tale of two companies, though. I'll dish on this and do my best to make my way around the blogosphere this weekend. I miss you!

Happy Mother's Day and Welcome to the 21st Century, Bebe

2007-05-13T21:37:00.000-04:00

Well, I have survived another Mother's Day. Thank God for my husband and the kids. They really do their best to make sure I have a good day - gifts, cards, going to dinner. I am grateful, and I love them dearly. But nobody calls me Mom and that makes me a little sad. Still, I've got to count my blessings. I don't know many step-mothers who get such special treatment.

Anyway, yesterday I cleaned my office. I can once again sit at my desk and write. Recently, my laptop and I had taken up residence on the sofa. I found an MP3 player in my desk drawer. I bought it well over a year ago, but never used it. I have figured out how to make it work! Eureka!

I have started the slow process of putting my CDs on the computer so I can sync to the MP3 player. Of course, now I am dreaming of the 80GB iPod. Baby steps.

I hope your Mother's Day was special.

RWA - What's in it for me?

2007-05-08T21:49:00.000-04:00

I got my proxy ballot from RWA in the mail yesterday, along with proposed changes to the Golden Heart and Rita contests. The board would like to drop the Novel with Strong Romantic Elements from the GH. Grrr. I write Women's Fiction. I'm contracted with a non-recognized e-pub. And I'm wondering if I should renew my membership. I mean, $75 is a lot for a magazine subscription.

Anyway, I was going to write a long rant on this subject, but that was before I read Elizabeth Kerri Mahon's post. So, what she said. As for me, "Grrr."

***

I've been tagged by Debbie.

In case I tag you, here are the rules:
1) Each player starts with 8 random facts or habits about themselves.
2) People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their 8 things with a copy of these rules.
3) At the end of your blog you need to choose 8 people to get tagged and list their names.
4) Don't forget to leave them a note saying they've been tagged.

1. I wear contact lenses.
2. I wear a size 11 shoe.
3. I have 2 piercings in each ear.
4. My youngest brother and I share a Valentine's Day birthday.
5. I was born in NY, raised in rural Florida, and consider myself a transplanted Southerner.
6. I don't have any sisters.
7. I don't have any tattoos. Never had 'em. Never will.
8. I haven't had a hair cut in over a year. (It's getting really long!)

I tag Annalee, Cassandra, Cole, Dara, Julie S., Rene, Stacy and Zinnia. Hopefully, none of you were tagged previously. If so, I guess you get a pass. ;)

Goals Update

2007-05-05T22:38:00.001-04:00

It's 284 days to my big 4-0. A couple of weeks ago, I listed some goals I wanted to hit before my birthday. I'm happy to report that I am making progress.

Goal - Lose 80 lbs. by 40th birthday. Current weight loss = 7 lbs.
Goal - Read Persuasion by Jane Austen. Today, I purchased the book.
Goal - Take down Christmas tree. Done! (Of course, I still have to meet the goal with next year's tree. But I'm celebrating success here!)
Goal - Take a wine tasting class. Class is in June and hubby has agreed to go with me.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend.

Psychic Phenomenom

2007-05-02T23:45:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday, All.

So... I'm not doing a Thursday Thirteen again this week. I really, truly want to, but I can barely think of something interesting to write about on one topic, much less thirteen! Is there like a Thursday Two club or something?

I took another Tickle test while I was watching American Idol. Yawn. Well, except for Jon Bon Jovi, that is. That man is hawt! Anyway, here is the result -

I'm a Precognition!

The ESP Test
Brought to you by Tickle

I have to say, I never heard the term precognition before. The following is how Tickle describes it:

Precognition is the ability to know things ahead of time. Nostradamus is one famous example of a person with precognitive powers. However, there are many psychics who claim they can tell the future. The more precognitive power you have, the greater your chances will be of knowing about events before they happen. Precognition can come in many forms. One of the most common and reliable of these is through dreams. Dreams can sometimes provide very credible information about future events; however, this form of precognition can often be hardest to believe and interpret. Perhaps this is because your dreams don't seem as real or tangible as knowledge that comes to you while you're awake. That's not to suggest that all dreams are predictions of the future — far from it. Most dreams have nothing to do with precognition. Still, learning to use your dreams as guides, and becoming able to discern which dreams anticipate future events, can be very valuable skills.

Even people who have not honed their precognitive abilities sometimes have episodes of precognition. For example, an old woman named Judy awoke one morning with a strong feeling that her long-lost son would show up that afternoon. As she ran her errands that morning and visited with her friends, she told all of them that her son would be visiting that day. They reminded her that he had up and left years ago and told her she was crazy to think he was coming. Even with their doubt and ridicule, Judy was so sure of her precognition that she turned down other afternoon plans so that she could sit home and wait. That afternoon a car pulled into her driveway. It was her son whom she had not seen in 12 years. Even Judy was amazed that her intuition had been correct. She was thrilled to tell her son that she had been waiting for him.

Overall, I scored 98 out of 100, which means that I scored higher than 98% of people who took the ESP Test. Plus, Tickle asked a number of objective questions that have definite right and wrong answers to them. A person randomly guessing on the answers to these questions would normally get at most 1 correct. I got 3 out of 4 correct, which apparently translates to a very strong psychic ability in this area.

Cool, huh? This could open lots of doors for me. For example, if the writing thing doesn't work out, I guess I could get a job at the Psychic Friends Network.

As if.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

2007-04-29T20:51:00.000-04:00

Today, Mr. Thomas' company hosted a family day at Citizen's Bank Park, home of the Phillies. It was a beautiful day. The sun shone brightly, but a cool breeze kept me from getting too warm. I declared a Weight Watchers holiday today as I had two hot dogs and a bag of Cracker Jack. I got a touch of a sunburn on my face, but just a touch as I made sure I wore a baseball cap and applied more sunscreen.

I've always loved baseball movies - The Natural, Field of Dreams, even Major League, but I never was a big baseball fan. It not paced fast enough for me. I've come to appreciate the game in the past few years, because the game requires brains and brawn. And the slower pace allows for multi-tasking while watching on television.

I can't say I like baseball as much as hockey. I love hockey! But it's a contender for the number two spot.

* * *

When I was busy procrastinating this evening, I took one of those goofy online tests.

I'm Clay Aiken?

Which American Idol Are You?

Brought to you by Tickle

Yikes!

Journey - A Writer's Club

2007-04-27T10:09:00.000-04:00

I'm blogging over at Journey today.

Come check out my post on what writing has in common with reality show contestants.

It's Progress, Right?

2007-04-22T21:23:00.000-04:00

I can hardly believe that I haven't updated the blog since last Sunday. I've had a fairly busy week, and while I have no writing news to report, the week was still a good one.

I've been doing pretty good on the Weight Watchers point system. I've lost 5 lbs. this week. I've got many more to go, of course, but I feel proud of myself that I stuck with it. The great thing about WW is that I can eat whatever I want. That's also the bad thing about WW. So far, so good, though. I even bought these neat food containers to bring my breakfast and lunch to work. I got the Lunch on the Go and Breakfast Chiller. Now, I just have to make sure I pack them the night before!

I have not gone back to the gym, yet. I walked the beach and boardwalk this weekend, so that counts as exercise, right? Right.

Anyway, I took a few pictures at the beach. This first one is in Longport, NJ. The plan on Saturday morning was to drive to Ocean City, Maryland. But I slept in, so we drove over to Atlantic City and made a right. This was our first stop. My husband and I collect shells, and we found some fabulous ones at this spot.

Driving back, we saw this elephant in Margate, NJ, and of course, had to stop to investigate.

"Lucy" is a National Historic Landmark, is 6 stories tall and was "born" in 1881. It's quirky, and you know how I like quirky.

And finally, I didn't take this picture, but...

...I'm gonna miss Sanjaya. I know a few posts back I wrote about American Idol jumping the shark, and I still think it's true. But I liked this kid. He's not the best singer, but he's not the worst, either. The judges complain that he's out of his league. Duh. Most of this year's contestants are underwhelming. But, hey, they put him on the show. And he may just have saved it. Besides, I think the show takes itself waaaaaaay too seriously.

So, that's what's up with me. What's up with you?

Rainy Days and Sundays...

2007-04-15T11:19:00.001-04:00

So, it's my day off, and it's raining. Philadelphia is smack dab in the middle of a Nor'easter. It's such a lazy day. I thought I'd curl up with Persuasion by Jane Austen, but much to my surprise, I don't have the book. I could have sworn it was in my collection. Maybe I loaned it out to someone. Oh, well, I guess I'll have to pick up another copy.

I am working on another goal, though. Finally, I dug out all my Weight Watchers stuff. I'm so disorganized! I've been looking for it for a few weeks now. Today I opened my closet and there it was. The hubster is trying to be supportive. He said to me yesterday, "I think if you drank more water it would help." I know he's right, but water is so blah. So, he went out and bought me a case of spring water and some of those Crystal Light singles. Isn't he a sweetie?

I don't know what I'm going to do for the rest of the day. Maybe take a nap. Do some writing. Make some Garden Vegetable soup. Read a little. Enjoy the rainy day.

What are you doing today?

Thirteen Things I'd Like to Do Before I Turn 40

2007-04-12T08:20:00.000-04:00

I'm turning 40 in 307 days. Arrrrrgh! In the spirit of goal setting (terrible at this!) and visualizing my desires (good at this!), I present my Thursday Thirteen.

Thirteen Things I'd Like to Do Before I Turn 40

1. Lose 80 lbs. - I really need to do this for my health, looks AND self confidence.

2. Become pregnant (or adopt a baby) - I have 3 great step-kids and 2
grandsons (I love, love, LOVE them!), but I've never had a baby of my
own.

3. Write 2 Novels (OK - one I am working on, but must
FINISH! The other is the story of my heart - I don't know if it will
get published, but... I'm going to write it, anyway.)

4. Write 2 Novellas for e-publishers.

5. Submit something I wrote to Mrs. Giggles - Look I'm a chicken, alright?
As much as I love her, I don't know if my fragile ego can take Mrs. G.

6. Revamp my website - I like it a lot, but I'm not sure it reflects who I am anymore.

7. Take a wine tasting class - the only thing I know about wine is red goes with beef, white goes with chicken.

8. Read Persuasion by Jane Austen. I've always wanted to read this book, but could never quite get into it.

9. Dye my hair blonde - well, blonde highlights... :)

10. Participate in the March of Dimes Walk-a-thon

11. Learn how to bowl and not look like a total dork. Really, I've no form
whatsoever and I throw gutter balls. My high score is like 56.

12. Forgive the people who have hurt me and my family in the past. Just let
it go. Sometimes this is not easy to do. I don't consider myself a
person that holds a grudge, but sometimes I'm just not ready to make
nice.

13. Take down my Christmas tree. I'm not kidding; I wish
I was. I generally keep my tree up past my birthday every year. It's
just too darn cold to be lugging everything down to the garage!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code
here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners
is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in
others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen
with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who
participates and leaves a link to their 13 things.Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday
Thirteen Participants

Coloring Outside the Lines

2007-04-10T22:42:00.000-04:00

Daisy Dexter Dobbs wrote a thought provoking post last week. I've thought about it for days. I hope you will read Daisy's post as I can't do it proper justice here. In a nutshell, she deals with some common personality traits of fiction writers. One common trait is the propensity for coloring outside the lines. And true to form, many of the readers commenting on the post say they, too, color outside the lines.

As a child, I desperately wanted to color inside the lines. I really did. And I never really could. This frustrated me until one day I didn't care anymore. I was going to go my own way and color the way I wanted to. As a romance writer, I am expected to write "inside the lines". Sure, there is room for creativity, but my mind and my characters often veer off course. And this has frustrated me. I am often asked what line I'm targeting. I've never known exactly what to say. Once I told a fellow writer, "I'm not targeting any line. I'm just writing stories." I wish I could describe the shock on her face. Then she told me I'd never get published that way.

Ummm. I don't care anymore. It occurs to me, just as it recently did to Jenn, maybe I'm writing the wrong story. I love reading and writing "literary" pieces with unexpected endings. And I don't need a happy ending to be satisfied. Maybe all this time I've been a plotter, when I should have been a pantser. Whatever. I'm still a writer - a published writer. One who is officially coloring outside the lines.

I'm Sick and Tired...

2007-04-05T11:09:00.000-04:00

... of being tired and sick! I've been incognito lately because I've been fighting a nasty sinus infection. I don't know why, but this type of infection hits me particularly hard. I've been taking antibiotics for almost a week and just when I think I've got it licked, the coughing, wheezing, stuffy head, throat-on-fire, head-achy feeling starts all over again! Woe is me! LOL

Anyway, the silver lining to feeling so... well, crappy is that I've been doing a lot of reading. I just finished reading Nora Roberts' Key Trilogy. I also finished Northern Lights, recently. It's been awhile since I've read Nora. I used to be a huge fan girl, until I started writing seriously, and then I found myself picking her books apart. Yes, Nora is the consummate storyteller, but she is the consummate head-hopper, too! Still, reading her books is like eating a big old bowl of your mom's macaroni and cheese - warm, familiar, and comforting.

Next on the TBR list is Barbara Clark's Tears of the Hawk from Amber Quill and Elizabeth Berg's The Year of Pleasures from Ballantine. Ms. Clark is a new author and Ms. Berg is one of my favorites.

Do you have a "comfort food" author? Or book? Or movie?

I Finally Won in Atlantic City!

2007-03-24T23:21:00.000-04:00

Yes, I know I haven't posted in over a week, and as odd as it sounds, it wasn't for lack of anything interesting to write about. On the contrary, my synapses have been in overdrive. So, I had this totally awesome Thursday Thirteen planned for this week - 13 random mini-essays on the ideas bouncing around in my head. Then I completely crashed after work on Thursday. No problemo, right? I told myself, "Be different, be wild, Bebe. Just post the Thursday Thirteen on Friday." Ha. Friday the hubster took me out to dinner.

What was I to do? Post on Saturday? Good idea. However, ~~through no fault of my own,~~ I drove to Atlantic City today and ended up winning $200 on the nickel Wheel of Fortune machine. I never win. Seriously, I drove to A.C. to have lunch at the Borgata. My waiter talked me into playing the slots, because he had a feeling I would win today. And I did. Isn't that cool?

Now it's nearly Sunday, and I have to work tomorrow teaching orientation class to 30 or so new hires at the day job. So... no Thursday Thirteen this week. Besides, some of these ideas are just too good for a mini-essay!

Pop Culture Madness!

2007-03-18T00:06:00.000-04:00

Stolen from Rene Lyons!

Go to popculturemadness.com, click on the decade you turned 18, find the actual year you turned 18 and copy the top songs for that year and paste.Then bold the ones you liked, strikeout the ones you hated and italicize the ones about which you were neutral. The ones you’ve never heard will stay unformatted.

~~That's What Friends Are For - Dionne & Friends~~
Addicted To Love - Robert Palmer
Kiss - Prince
Walk This Way - Run D.M.C./Aerosmith
Living In America - James Brown
You Give Love A Bad Name - Bon Jovi
~~Take My Breath Away - Berlin~~
Burning Heart - Survivor
Walk Like An Egyptian - The Bangles
~~The Sweetest Taboo - Sade~~
~~Higher Love - Steve Winwood~~
Never As Good As The First Time - Sade
Greatest Love Of All - Whitney Houston
Tarzan Boy - Baltimora
Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel
You're A Friend Of Mine - Clarence Clemons & Jackson Browne
Manic Monday - The Bangles
~~Glory Of Love - Peter Cetera~~
Like A Rock - Bob Seger
I Knew The Bride (When She Used To Rock and Roll) - Nick Lowe
Word Up - Cameo
~~Conga - Miami Sound Machine~~
The Men All Pause - Klymaxx
In Your Eyes - Peter Gabriel
Live To Tell - Madonna
Venus - Bananarama
Typical Male - Tina Turner
Take Me Home Tonight - Eddie Money
Rock Me Amadeus - Falco
I Can't Wait - Nu Shooz
If You Leave - O.M.D.
~~You Be Illin' - Run DMC~~
Crush On You - The Jets
~~The Rain - Oran "Juice" Jones~~
Papa Don't Preach - Madonna
Mad About You - Belinda Carlisile
R.O.C.K. In The USA - John "Cougar" Melloncamp
Danger Zone - Kenny Loggins
Words Get In The Way - Miami Sound Machine
Walk Of Life - Dire Straits
I'm Your Man - Wham!
All Cried Out - Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam With Full Force
West End Girls - Pet Shop Boys
~~Dancing On The Ceiling - Lionel Richie~~
We Don't Have To Take Our Clothes Off - Jermaine Stewart
My Hometown - Bruce Springsteen
On My Own - Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald
Everybody Have Fun Tonight - Wang Chung
All I Need Is A Miracle - Mike & the Mechanics
Tuff Enuff - Fabulous Thunderbirds
The Future's So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades- Timbuk3
Love Walks In - Van Halen

The Luck of the Irish

2007-03-17T00:32:00.000-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!!

Believe it or not, I'm not of Norwegian descent. I know a lot of people assume I am because of Aurora's Passion. I'm a second generation Irish American. It's true. My maternal grandparents came to the United States in the 1920's. My Nana (paternal grandmother) is also Irish. Her parents came to America shortly before she was born in 1919.

Yeah, so? Well, this means if I wanted to, I could claim a dual citizenship in the US and Ireland. Seriously, I could get an Irish passport and everything, which could come in handy if I ever want to move to Europe.

Anyway, I thought I'd share some Irish sayings today in honor of my wonderful 88 year-old Nana and in memory of my Grandma & Grandpa.

If you're lucky enough to be Irish, then you're lucky enough.

Beware of people who dislike cats

There are good ships, and there are wood ships, the ships that sail the sea.
But the best ships are friendships, and may they always be.

May you never forget what is worth remembering,
Or remember what is best forgotten.

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you
In the palm of his hand.

and my personal favorite...

"They're always after me Lucky Charms!"

Thursday Thirteen

2007-03-15T19:50:00.000-04:00

Bebe's Thirteen Favorite Movies

1. Casablanca
2. Pride & Prejudice (Colin Firth Version)
3. The Bishop's Wife
4. Pretty in Pink
5. Sabrina
6. Return to Me
7. Out of Africa
8. Beauty and the Beast
9. Pride & Prejudice (Keira Knightly Version)
10. The Way We Were
11. When Harry Met Sally...
12. Just Like Heaven
13. The Quiet Man

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

How Was the Flight?

2007-03-13T22:32:00.000-04:00

I'm home. I flew into Philadelphia late this afternoon. Did you ever notice how people ask, "How was the flight?" when you fly somewhere? How are you supposed to answer that question? In my book, it's a good flight if I get to my destination, because that means the plane obviously DIDN'T CRASH!

Mr. T (hubby) and Max (cat) both missed me very, very much. Mr. T even watched American Idol with me, and he hates that show. And the hockey game was on.

I honestly think I might be over Idol. None of the contestants are really doing it for me this year. Randy Jackson said it's about the "Yo" factor. I think plenty of them have the "Hell No" factor, but frankly nobody really stands out as supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! I'm kind of wondering why I should even bother. Especially when I could be writing.

What do you think? Has Idol jumped the shark?

Hello from Sunny Florida

2007-03-11T18:59:00.000-04:00

I have two more days in Florida. Although I have been mostly taking care of my mum, it is beautiful here. Lots of sunshine, temperatures in the upper 70's, good food, good friends - it's times like these when I ask myself why I left in the first place.

I miss Philadelphia, though, and most especially my two guys at home. I've been married to Mr. Thomas for 8 1/2 years, and yes, I do quite a bit of traveling for work and writing and occasionally family matters without him. But this is the longest stretch we've been apart in the time we've been together. It's hard feeling torn like this - I want to be in both places. Perhaps someday we will be able to have a home in Philly and one in Florida.

I've worked on some writing this week. I'm happy to say, I think I am over the hump on Aurora's Promise and will be turning it into my editor very soon. I also have another book idea churning around in the old gray matter. More on that later.

As for this week, well, I am heading home Tuesday. But tomorrow, my fellow Dreams and Desires author, Amanda Brice, guest blogs on WNBC columnist Michelle Buonfiglio's Romance by the Blog, and all of the authors will be dropping by throughout the day. I hope you will stop by if you have some time.

I'm Back...

2007-03-06T11:06:00.000-05:00

Hey-

I hope everyone is doing well. I've had a rough few months, but I'm back on track. I'm hard at work on Aurora's Promise - it will be done soon, I promise.

Today, I'm chatting at Novelspotters. Stop by and ask a few random questions. Here's a few ideas...

What color are your eyes?
What CD are you listening to right now?
Have you had any dental work done lately?

An Update

2006-09-22T07:59:00.000-04:00

Well, first for the good news. It's Friday. And I have my chat with Emma Petersen up at Conversations With Almost Famous Writers. You are not going to want to miss it! Emma dishes on shopping, cabana boys, and secret babies. Plus, she answers the "eggroll question"!

Now, the not so good news. I officially didn't get the job. Besides that, my current boss also got suspended on Tuesday and subsequently resigned yesterday. So, at this point, I don't know which location I will be assigned to or what position I will have. I guess you could say I'm in limbo. I am hoping for the best, of course. Any positive vibes, prayers, thoughts... thank you in advance.

In the meantime, I have those deadlines! See you soon.

Coffee Time Romance Chat

2006-09-19T07:59:00.000-04:00

I'm chatting on Coffee Time Romance tonight with three of my fellow Freya's Bower authors - Kay Derwydd, Aurelia Abbott and Canice Brown-Porter. The chat starts at 9pm Eastern Time - that's 6pm for you West Coasters - and waaaaaaaaaay past your bed time in Europe! LOL

Anyway, stop by if you can. I'm giving away a copy of Aurora's Passion and chatting about the sequel.

I still haven't heard any "official" word about my DDJ (dreaded day job), but I'll keep you posted.

TGIF

2006-09-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

It's Friday. Yay!

I have a new interview up at Conversations... with my sister in snark, the fabulous Sela Carsen.

On the DDJ (dreaded day job) front, I'm pretty sure I didn't get the position I wanted. I haven't been given the news officially, but I'd bet the farm on it. Sometimes when you know, you know. Maybe it's for the best. I'll keep you posted.

The good news is I'm deep into writing the sequel to Aurora's Passion. It's coming along pretty well, I think.

Anybody watch Rock Star Supernova or Dancing With the Stars this week? Any thoughts?
Me, I didn't personally dig Lukas at all. But, he fits with Supernova.

As for Dancing... I was surprised at how well Emmitt Smith danced. I also thought Harry Hamlin did a good job, despite been panned by the experts. Of course, their partners Cheryl and Ashly are superb.

I hope to drop by everyone's blog this weekend to say hey. Thanks for sticking with me!

Dancing with the Stars...

2006-09-12T08:15:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone!

Sorry I haven't been around in a few days. There's a test I have to take in order to qualify for my new position. I've been studying a lot!

I'll be back soon. I promise.

In the meantime, the new season of Dancing With the Stars begins tonight. I love this show! I posted a special "Dancing With the Stars" edition of Conversations With Almost Famous Writers featuring author Katherine Warwick.

Thanks for all your support during this time. It really means a lot!

Friday Conversation With Marty Kindall

2006-09-08T08:18:00.000-04:00

Yay! Friday is finally here. (Am I the only one who gets messed up on holiday weeks? - I thought Friday would never get here!)

Here's a snippet of my conversation with Marty Kindall:

Bebe: Hi Marty. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Marty: I was born and raised in Ohio, and spent my college years in Michigan and Arkansas. I’m a college administrator and history teacher in a super-creative environment. To work with creative people has really been encouraging to me as a writer.

Bebe: How do you work writing in to your routine?

Marty: I have a fairly regimented weekday schedule--a definite start/end time to work. But with teaching, you also have preparation for class, grading, reviewing future materials. All of that takes time, too. I discovered the reward system works best for me--when I get done with everything on the “must do” list, then I’m free to write. I can usually string a couple hours together each evening and more on weekends.

Bebe: You have an e-book out with Wild Rose Press. Tell us about the story.

Marty: My book, The Knot was released earlier this month, but The Wild Rose Press officially launches on Sunday, September 10 (check my blog for details). The Knot is ultimately a story about redemption and the power of love. I didn’t intend for it to be a mystery/suspense story--that’s not my main gig--but it took that twist and I went with it...

Okay, you know the deal - pop over to Conversations With Almost Famous Writers to read more about Marty and to find out where she finds the best eggroll!

*****

Egads! I promised a poll. Well, you shall have one... this afternoon. I have to dash off to work, and I haven't figured out how to post the poll, yet! So, check back soon, and in the meantime, go read Marty's interview.

Have a great day!

Murphy's Law

2006-09-07T08:03:00.000-04:00

I had this whole end-of-summer post planned for earlier in the week, but my heart just wasn't in it. My heart hasn't been in writing, either. It's a big problem, since I have a major deadline just around the corner.

Here's why: It looks like my position at the day job may be eliminated. It's upsetting, because I love what I'm doing. The good news is I won't be out of a job completely; I just don't know what I'll be doing, where I'll be doing it, or what hours I'll be working yet. A bit unsettling to say the least.

Anyway, I'm planning a great post tomorrow. I'll be posting my conversation with Wild Rose Press author Marty Kindall. Marty writes Vintage romance, and her current book, The Knot, is set in the 1930's Blue Ridge Mountains.

I'll also have a little poll for you to check out.

And then on Tuesday, I'm having a special Dancing With the Stars edition of Conversations With Almost Famous Writers. You won't want to miss it.

Friday Conversation With Stacy Dawn

2006-09-01T01:34:00.000-04:00

It's Friday! Time to post a snippet of my Conversation With Almost Famous Writer Stacy Dawn.

Bebe: Hi, Stacy. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Stacy: I'm a stay-at-home mother of two and the only female in my house. (Sports of any kind dominate the topic of conversations 90% of the day.) I've been writing for years but seriously for the last four years.

Bebe: How do you work writing in to your daily routine?
Stacy: I try to fit my writing in the mornings and early afternoons for a few hours - not necessarily all together with kids underfoot LOL. But at the same time, I've kept this routine so they are used to it.

Bebe: You have two e-books out with Wild Rose Press. Tell us about the stories.
Stacy: The Theory of Love is a fun and flirty story...

Pop on over to Conversations With Almost Famous Writers to eavesdrop on the rest of our chat where Stacy dishes on being a Canadian, Jon Bon Jovi, and finding the perfect egg roll.

***

Ciar Cullen is conducting a poll on her blog. Cerri Ellis, book reviewer extraordinaire, nominated Aurora's Passion as one of the best e-books of the summer. Lots of great books were nominated, but if you're so inclined, drop by this weekend and vote for me. Here's the link: http://ciarcullen.blogspot.com/2006/08/vote-best-ebook-of-summer.html

I don't have any plans for the big weekend. My hubby may have to work Saturday. If the rain clears up we may barbecue on Sunday. Maybe even go to the movies. What are you doing?

News at 11

2006-08-29T23:55:00.000-04:00

Well, it's really almost midnight, but I couldn't think of an interesting title.

Anyway, I want to thank everyone for your hugs and well wishes. And I also want to give a shout out to my father. My dad stopped by my blog yesterday, read my post, and thought something was drastically wrong.

Hi Daddy! Everything is fine. I didn't mean to worry
you.

I'm an emotional person. I'm fragile beneath the tough, Philly girl exterior. But I'm also a fighter, a survivor. I am feeling better. Things feel less tense. I am getting back to normal.

***

I'm taking Elle James' & Delilah Devlin's class at Roses Colored Glasses, Write 50 Books in a Year. There's like a gazillion people on the yahoo loop. I'm only lurking, but worksheets they are posting are pretty good. Anybody else checking it out?

Laine Morgan is out as a major Duran Duran fan. I have to admit, I like them, too. (I mean, they aren't Barry Manilow, but... LOL!) So much so, that I watched their concert tonight on my local cable station. I never thought I would say this, but I am glad I watched the show. You know the song Ordinary World? Well, I haven't heard that song in years. But when I heard it tonight, everything clicked together for a novella I've been working on. Does music have that effect on your writing?

Everything Happens for a Reason

Refocusing My Energy

2006-08-28T09:18:00.000-04:00

Well, I didn't have the best weekend. Oh, it started out nice enough, but it ended on a rough note.

I met with my local writer's group on Saturday. I love meeting with those guys. It's a diverse group: we write in all genres, and we are all at different levels in our writing journey. I always feel rejuvenated when I go to the group.

I started to read Teacher Man by Frank McCourt. I loved Angela's Ashes and 'Tis. This book, not so much. So, I pulled another book out of my TBR pile, Year of Pleasures by Elizabeth Berg.
Hopefully, I will connect with this book.

I got some upsetting news on Sunday afternoon. I was up most of the night with a headache. As bad as it was, it gave me plenty of time to think about things, re-evaluate my personal goals, and refocus on what's really important to me.

So, maybe it didn't end on a rough note after all.

Friday Conversation With Amanda Brice

2006-08-25T01:04:00.000-04:00

Today I'm chatting with chick-lit author, Amanda Brice.

Bebe: Hi, Amanda. Thanks for stopping by. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Amanda: I’m 29 years old and live in Arlington, Virginia with my absolutely wonderful husband, who’s also my best friend. We met at a party the first week of law school. He claims I was spitting in his face, but I have zero recollection of that (damn that Maggie forcing me to drink all that red wine!). Anyway, somehow he still liked me. Go figure.

Bebe: I love it! It sounds like a scene out of a romantic comedy. Anything else you want to reveal?

Amanda: I’m an intellectual property attorney, specializing in trademark and copyright law. In my spare time, I dance. I used to do all styles—ballet, tap, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, flamenco, ballroom, Latin—but I don’t have the stamina or body that I had when I was a teenager or in college. So now it’s just ballet and jazz.

Bebe: You seem very artistic and creative. How did you get into the field of law?

Amanda: It’s kind of a convoluted story. The short answer is I didn’t have anything better to do.

Bebe: LOL – Care to expand on that?

****Read Amanda's answer and the rest of the conversation HERE.****

Hee hee. Pretty slick how I'm getting you over to my other blog, eh?

In other news... YAY!!! It's Friday. It's supposed to rain all weekend, and I plan to take Shelli's advice and dig into my TBR pile. I hope reading will rejuvenate my muse.

What are you doing this weekend?

It's Thursday, Thank Goodness

2006-08-24T08:52:00.000-04:00

I didn't win the Powerball again. But my work week at the day job is almost over. Yay! It's been a weird week.

Tomorrow, or maybe later on tonight, I'll post my conversation with the fabulous Amanda Brice.

I hope you guys like reading about other writers. I love doing the interviews!

Well, time to make the donuts.

Ain't No Cure for the Summertime Blues

2006-08-22T09:26:00.000-04:00

Ever just feel bleh? Not blah, but bleh? You know, so blah that you can't even muster the energy to say it properly. I'm in a state of blehness lately, and I don't know why.

I'm itching to write. But I'm not writing. I don't know... maybe I'm afraid of failure. Or success. I think it's failure, though.

Anyway, just wanted to let you know, I'm still here and thinking of you. I'll get around to your blogs soon.

Oh... and if someone could smack me and say "Snap out of it!", I'd be ever so grateful.

Friday Conversation With Crystal Jordan

2006-08-18T00:25:00.000-04:00

Bebe: First things first, tell us a little about yourself.

Crystal: I was born and raised in California, but for the last few years I've lived and worked in Indiana, Tennesse and Kentucky. Talk about culture shock! I'm a university librarian and when I started my first "real" job, I found I had all this time that used to be eaten up by homework and assigned readings. So, I started writing as a hobby. Now, it's a second career for me and I love every minute of it. Even when I want to throttle my stubborn characters.

Bebe: Besides author, what is your dream job?

Crystal: World explorer. In fact, my critique partner and I wrote a book about explorers that we just sold to Cobblestone Press, called Finding Paradise.

Bebe: Your e-book Full Swing is out today with Cobblestone Press. Tell us a little bit about the story.

Crystal: Full Swing is a reunion story about a husband and wife who are struggling with their marriage and split up, but circumstances bring them back together and they decide to give their marriage a second chance. I absolutely fell in love with these characters because they're so different and very strong in their own ways (and stubborn, I always get the stubborn ones).

Here's the official blurb: Pro-golfer Jill Brandon's life and marriage changes when her Army Ranger husband is injured. It takes a painful separation and a brush with danger for Tyler to realize what he's lost. He's determined to bring their marriage full swing. He's always done his best convincing in the bedroom. Will it be enough?

Bebe: What made you write about golf?

Crystal: I wrote about golf because I wanted to write a book where the heroine, rather than the hero, was a professional athlete. Usually it's the hero who's a football player or baseball player and I wanted to change it up a bit. The only sport I knew enough about to write was golf. So, Jill was born, the Tiger Woods of the LPGA tour.

Bebe: Sounds great! Are you a golfer?

Crystal: I played on the varsity girls' golf team in high school. I really love to watch golf, but I haven't played since I was 18. I don't even want to know what my handicap is now. Yikes!

Bebe: What kind of books do you like to read?

Crystal: I like romance, young adult, chick-lit, science-fiction, and fantasy.

Bebe: Who are your favorite authors?

Crystal: Favorite authors? Sheesh, do you have all day? To name a VERY few: Suzanne Brockmann, Linda Howard, Elizabeth Moon, JRR Tolkien (duh), Jax Abbott, Gena Showalter, Robin D. Owens, Elizabeth Hayden, Robin Hobb, Jaci Burton and Angela Knight.

Wow, I know I'm forgetting some of them.

Bebe: Are you working on a project now? Tell us about it.

Crystal: I'm working on my first dark paranormal novella called Revenant. It's about a woman who thinks she's insane because she can see and speak to people no one else can. It turns out she's talking to ghosts, or revenants, and if she doesn't learn to harness her abilities soon, she going to end up dead. My hero is a cranky revenant who's been hanging around for a few centuries.

Bebe: What do you do to kick back and relax?

Crystal: I go out to dinner with friends and talk about anything but work or writing. We have two rules: eat when your food shows up, don't wait for everyone's food to show up; and no talking about work of any kind.

Bebe: Speaking of food, do you know where can I find the perfect egg roll?

Crystal: The very best egg rolls can be found in this little hole-in-the-wall resturant in Sacramento, California. I can't even remember what it's called, The Golden Lion or something. But the egg rolls are perfect, crunchy and gold on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside.

Bebe: Mmmm. Yummy.

Crystal: Okay, now I'm hungry.

Bebe: I’m glad you could stop by to chat, Crystal. I can’t wait to read Full Swing!

Crystal: Thanks, Bebe!

Learn more about Crystal at her website or blog!

Still Here, Just Busy

2006-08-17T09:04:00.000-04:00

So... I've overextended myself again. Somebody smack me the next time I decide to launch a new blog/feature on existing blog, commit to BIAW, and write a newsletter in the same week. I should have taken a week off from the day job to do this. Oh, well. I work best under pressure.

Anyway, please come by tomorrow for my Conversations with Almost Famous Writers feature. My first guest will be the fabulous Crystal Jordan whose book Full Swing is out tomorrow with Cobblestone Press.

I'll also be posting the conversation on my new blog: Conversations With Almost Famous Writers. Send me an email if there is an Almost Famous Writer you would like to see featured or if you are a writer interested in being featured. The schedule is filling up quick! I'm already booking into 2007.

See you tomorrow!

Happy Tuesday

2006-08-15T08:41:00.000-04:00

I'm almost fully recovered from my promo weekend. Somebody please remind me never to schedule three events like that back to back - well, unless it is a multi-city book tour.

I started BIAW yesterday. I did a bit of brainstorming and wrote about 150 words before I conked out from exhaustion. Today will be better. I am bringing my Quickpad to work and hopefully, I will have some down time today.

My newsletter will go out this week, too. So, probably this weekend, I'll be making the much dreaded trip to the post office to send out prizes. If you won a prize from me and haven't received it yet, not to worry. I've just been procrastinating.

I've decided to start a new Friday feature on the blog: Conversations with Almost Famous Writers. I'll be posting my conversation with a writer you probably don't know about, but should. This Friday's conversation is with Crystal Jordan.

If you want to be featured, drop an e-mail to bebe "at" bebethomas "dot" com.

Visit Me this Weekend

2006-08-10T23:24:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, I'm the author of the day on Ciar Cullen's yahoo group. I'll be posting throughout the day, so stop by if you get a chance.

Then on Sunday, I'm chatting with fellow Freya's Bower and Wild Child Publishing author, HA Fowler at The Romance Studio from 9PM-10PM.

And don't forget, my newsletter will go out around the 15th of the month. If you sign up for my newsletter, you'll automatically be entered for all of my future contests. Click HERE for all the details.

BIAW & 1/2

2006-08-09T09:55:00.000-04:00

I'm starting my very first BIAW(Book in a Week) today. Officially, the BIAW at Villa In Tuscany does not start until Monday. But I feel I need the extra time. So, I'm modifying it a bit - I'm doing BIAW&1/2.

I'm also getting back on the diet wagon today. I'll still be doing the LA Weight Loss Plan. (I mean, I spent a ton of money on it, so I might as well get something out of it!) I think I am going to modify the plan a bit, though. Right now, it is hard to keep up with. I'm hoping that I can get on a roll with diet, so it doesn't seem so much like work.

These are my two big goals for the next week or so. What are your current goals?

Tagged... by Daisy Dexter Dobbs & Queen Slackass

2006-08-08T07:37:00.000-04:00

Ack... I've been tagged. Twice.

1. When did you start blogging and why?

I've had a blog for my non-fiction life for about a year and a half. I hardly ever update it, though. I've had this blog since April. I started blogging to connect with my readers and fellow authors.

2. What don't you talk about?

Religion and Politics. I do write a bit about my personal life. Otherwise, my blog posts would be promo, promo, promo. I think readers get fed up with blatant promo - I know I do!

3. Are you and your blogging persona the same person?

Well, our names are different, but we share many of the same characteristics. Although, I will say Bebe is thinner, prettier and sexier!

4. How do you use blogging to build friendships?

I consider all my regulars friends. I look forward to having them drop by. Likewise, I like to visit their blogs also.

5. How would you describe your writing style?

Direct and to the point, with a touch of humor.

I'm tagging: Rene, Melissa and Julie S.

Religion, Politics & Me

2006-08-06T10:44:00.000-04:00

I'm completely stressed out after visiting my friends in cyberspace this week. There seems to be no common ground. Between Jan Butler's letter in the RWR and several threads at the Romance Divas forum, I've struggled to keep my mouth shut.

And believe me, there have been some comments that make me want to jump into the fray.

I normally don't talk about religion or politics. Not that I don't like a lively discussion, but I don't ever want anyone to feel like I'm pushing my political views or religious beliefs. Likewise, I don't want anyone pushing their views or beliefs on me.

How did you feel about the goings on this week?

Priorities (and Dr. Phil)

2006-08-03T22:29:00.000-04:00

I posted a funny about Dr. Phil a few posts back. After reading the post, Chrissy Olinger, sent me an article she wrote "That Dog Won't Hunt: How I Discovered Dr. Phil is a Big Fat Liar". If you're interested, check out her website. Chrissy has written several fabulous articles on body image and size acceptance.

Anyway, the article got me thinking about dieting. I'm on the LA Weight Loss plan right now. And I've had some success with it, but the weight is not coming off as steadily or as quickly as I'd like. Now, don't get me wrong, after I lose weight, I am still going to be a porky. No doubt about it. I would just like to be a little less porky.

Why has my weight loss plateaued? National conference. PMS. Dr. Phil (and other diet gurus) would probably say something like, I am not making losing weight a priority. And it's true - at this point, I'm not. But is that really the key?

It seems like everything is a priority -writing, exercising, eating right, getting enough sleep, getting to work each day, staying healthy. I don't know how to fit it all in! And don't tell me to relax about the housework. I'm relaxed already! Seriously, Mr. Bebe is a fantastic hubby - he does laundry, dishes, takes out the trash. In general, he makes sure that I can spend my evenings focused on writing.

How do you prioritize your priorities?

The Secret is Out! Yes, Rene, there is a Barry Manilow...

2006-07-31T23:15:00.000-04:00

The winners of my Atlanta Secret contest are Rene, Stacy and Lis. E-mail me your snail mail, and I will send you some goodies. Also, let me know what kind of books you like, I probably have something for you.

Now, the explanation. A full of my chick-lit erotic novella, I've Got a Secret, was requested by an editor at a major publishing house and an agent. And a smaller house requested a partial of the same story, plus a partial of a erotic romantic suspense. So, Stacy was right and Lis was also correct in guessing my secret. And Rene, with the sly Barry Manilow comment, has also won some goodies.

I'll bet you are wondering what in world this has to do with Barry Manilow. Well, here's another secret of mine... I love Barry Manilow. I'm not one of those crazy, psychotic fans, but I am a major fan. I mean, I'm not a member of Barry.net or anything, but I do have the boxed set. Anyway, when I started getting serious about writing, I thought it would be kind of cool to write a chick-lit with a Barry-lovin' heroine. I've since written Barry out (well, mostly), added some hot sex scenes, and my Barry-inspired chick-lit has morphed into I've Got a Secret.

So, yes, Rene, it has something to do with Barry Manilow.

I've Got a Secret...

2006-07-31T08:31:00.000-04:00

About my trip to Atlanta. The first person to guess my secret wins a bag full of goodies!

Good luck

Blogging from 30,000 feet

2006-07-27T10:14:00.000-04:00

I’m blogging from 30,000 feet. By the time you read this, I’ll be back on the ground, but whatever. I had no trouble at the airport this morning, and I was able to upgrade my ticket to first class. I’m a little torqued off, though. There’s a young guy sitting next to me who did not pay to upgrade. I caught a peek at his ticket, and he is supposed to be in 16A.

I was pretty steamed about it at first, but hell, if I was a young kid like that I might try it. I mean, I think about all the times I snuck down to better seats at concerts. And he’s not taking advantage of the freebies (although it is only AirTran, so the freebies are no big whoop).

Well, we are about to land. So, gotta go for now. My next message will be from the Marriott Marquis!

UPDATE:

It's now Thursday morning, and this is the first time I've been able to access the internet. I'm over in the mall food court. I'd heard a rumor that there was free wireless here, and it's true! I didn't want to spend 12.95 a day for the internet at the hotel.

Yesterday, I met up with my roomie Sherice at the airport. We grabbed a cab together to the hotel and met up with some divas for drinks & lunch.

I stopped by the literacy signing and chatted with Melanie Jackson for a while. I love her work. And she's super nice and supportive. I met her last year at the Las Vegas airport.

Then, I went to Ruth Chris' for dinner. It was good, but not spectacular. But, now I can say I've gone to a fancy schmancy restaurant. And my checkbook survived!

Later, y'all!

I'm Outta Here...

2006-07-25T19:49:00.000-04:00

I figured I have time for one more post before I get cracking on the rest of the to do list.

1. Pack clothing, shoes, and various personal essentials
2. Change out my wallet and purse
3. Print out plane tickets and hotel confirmation
4. Assemble and pack promo and contest goodies
5. Find box to ship home free books
6. Pack up laptop computer/reconfigure router so hubby is not stuck with no internet if it goes down. (He is technologically challenged and will not know to reboot the router.)
7. Shave my legs.
8. Find inner peace

And how will I find inner peace? Well, my dad sent me this email... perhaps it could work.

I am passing this on to you because it definitely worked for me and we
could all use a little more calmness in our lives.

By following this simple advice I heard on the Dr. Phil show, I have
finally found inner peace.

Dr. Phil proclaimed, "The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all
the things you've started and never finished."

So, I looked around my house to see all the things I started and
hadn't finished, and before leaving the house this morning, I finished
off a bottle of Merlot, a bottle of White Zinfandel, a bottle of
Bailey's Irish Cream, a bottle of Kahlua, a package of Oreos, the
remainder of my old Prozac prescription, the rest of the cheesecake,
some Doritos and a box of chocolates.

You have no idea how freaking good I feel.

How are you feeling?

Two Days and Counting...

2006-07-24T07:16:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I made a tentative schedule and have my outfits planned out (with a couple of extras just in case I change my mind). I also worked on getting some of my promo items together. I'm not quite done with that, though. I have to make another run to Staples.

My hubby gave me a diamond pendant this weekend. It's set in a white gold and yellow gold heart. I was completely surprised! He wanted me to know that he's proud of me and will miss me while I'm in Atlanta. He said he was going to give it to me on Wednesday morning before my flight, but that he thought it might upset me.

He's right. I'm excited about my trip, but also apprehensive and anxious. Besides missing my hubby (which is no small thing), I'm a teensy-weensy bit afraid of flying. I try not to think about everything that could go wrong that I have absolutely no control over. And sometimes it works. Mostly, it doesn't.

Any other worrywarts out there?

Getting Ready for Nationals

2006-07-22T10:01:00.000-04:00

I just got back from the salon, and my nails look all purty. I have another appointment on Tuesday night for a pedicure and eyebrow wax. Tonight, I'm going to make a tentative schedule and try to coordinate outfits to match.

As far as the pitch goes, I'm not stressing over this. Not yet anyway. I've pitched at local conferences, and it was only intimidating the first time. I plan to basically be myself and talk about my stories. Hopefully, it will be enough to garner a request.

What I am kind of stressing over is the internet access at the hotel. Apparently, it's 12.95 a day. I hear there is free wireless in the Peachtree Mall food court. I may be spending some time there. Stop by and see me.

Also, make sure to stop by the goody room to check out some of my promo items.

Busy Slackassing

2006-07-20T23:41:00.000-04:00

I've been getting caught up on some projects this week. I've got a lot to do before I head to Atlanta for the RWA conference next week. But, I took a few hours off tonight to kick back and watch TV - otherwise known as slackassing.

First up, Behind the Music on VH1 - check out The Slackass Clan to find out what a sucker I am for a love story.

Then, some Food TV. I'm seriously crushing on Paula Deen's sons, Jamie and Bobby. Something about southern gentlemen. Mmmm. Hmmm.

I've got to get back to work, but before I do, I must once again mention My Super Fantabulous Newsletter Contest. Sign up, and you're entered in my newsletter contests forever!

The Best Review Ever!!!!!

2006-07-17T22:15:00.000-04:00

Check out the lastest Aurora's Passion review here. I love Ellie McBride and Romance News! Don't you love it when someone completely gets you? That's how I feel right now.

Since I'm being so shameless today, I would be remiss if I did not once again mention my Super Fantabulous Newsletter Contest. This month I'm giving away pamper-me gifts from Bath & Body Works and a copy of Aurora's Passion to two lucky winners. There are three super easy ways to sign up. So, what are you waiting for?

I just updated my blog roll and I'm positive I missed some folks. I'm sorry in advance. Just give me a shout out, and I'll add you pronto!

Bebe's Newsletter Contest

2006-07-15T04:23:00.000-04:00

Finally, Yahoo seems to be cooperating! This month, I'm giving away pamper-me gift sets. Two lucky winners will receive full-size goodies from Bath & Body Works plus a copy of Aurora's Passion. All you have to do to enter is sign up for my newsletter. And even that couldn't be easier, there are three easy ways to sign up!

Click to join bebethomasromance

If you are more of a Google Group person, you can sign up at http://groups.google.com/group/Bebe-Thomas-Romance

Don't want to join a group? Send me an email with Newsletter as the topic, and I'll send the newsletter to your email every month.

The best part of signing up for my newsletter? You are automatically entered into my monthly newsletter contests FOREVER! That's it. Nothing else to do, but sit back and win free stuff.

Stay Tuned...

2006-07-14T00:58:00.000-04:00

I'll be posting the details of my July newsletter contest this weekend. Heck, I'd post it now, but Yahoo Groups is down. Shocking! I'm also going to have a Google group and a regular email version of the newsletter. I hate Yahoo, but more readers are interested in the Yahoo Group, so I'm giving options.

Well, while I'm waiting (and waiting and waiting) for Yahoo to cooperate, check out my post over at The Slackass Clan .

My First Author Interview

2006-07-11T07:54:00.000-04:00

Amanda Brice, author of She's Got Legs, is featuring me on her blog, today. Stop by and read all about my tortured childhood and inner demons.

I'll be chatting this Sunday, July 16th at Romance Divas with some fellow FB authors and the editors. We'll be talking about our new and upcoming releases, and the editors will take your pitches. If you've been thinking about submitted to Freya's Bower or Wild Child Publishing (sister division), stop by and pitch your story!

I'm a Slackass

2006-07-07T08:11:00.000-04:00

So, I caved in and joined a group blog - The Slackass Clan. I never thought I'd do it, but this group is so... me.

And I'm in great company - Kimberly Holt-Whitlock & M.E. Ellis from Freya's Bower/Wild Child are slackasses. So are Karen Erickson and Cora Zane from Cobblestone Press. Plus, Silma Pagan from RD and Jen round out the group.

Slacking never felt so good.

And the Winner Is...

2006-07-06T22:02:00.000-04:00

There are three winners in my June Blog contest...

The winner of the Scandinavian chocolates is Heather (Word Trix)!

The winner of the purse is Diana C!

And the winner of the unadvertised box of goodies is Jennifer Colgan!

Send me an email to claim your prize. Congratulations to the winners! And check back this weekend for info on my July contest.

I'm Back...

2006-07-06T00:12:00.000-04:00

We just got in from our mini-vacation about an hour ago. Had a great time, but it is a long drive from the Smoky Mountains to Philadelphia. Traffic jams plus bad weather equalled a nervous Bebe! I was saying prayers to St. Jude all day! He's my go-to saint.

Anyway, I just wanted to pop in and say hi. I missed youse guys!!!!! (It feels good to say that - LOL.) After I get some sleep, I'll draw the winners of the June blog contest, post some pictures, and take a stroll around the blogosphere!

Biltmore Estate

2006-07-03T08:55:00.000-04:00

We went to the Biltmore Estate yesterday. The house itself was massive with over forty guest bedrooms, each with a private bath, several sitting rooms, plus an indoor swimming pool and gymnasium. I think this must be what Jane Austen had in mind when she described Pemberly, Mr. Darcy's estate in Pride and Prejudice.

Today, we are going on a picnic at Sliding Rock in the Pisgah Forest. This looks like fun!

Hope you're having a great weekend!

Summer Mini-Break

2006-06-29T22:29:00.000-04:00

I'm taking a few days off to go visit The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. I'm looking forward to relaxing with my family and friends - and catching up on my Summer Reading.

When Manhattanite CEO Noel Ford decides to adopt a letter addressed to Santa Claus, he never expects to end up escorting sexy single mother Maura Kelly around the city on Christmas Eve. Because of her son Kyle’s selfless wish for her to find love again after her husband’s death, Maura agrees to spend the day with the handsome stranger, against her better judgment.

The spark between Noel and Maura is immediate, but the distance between Park Avenue and the New Jersey suburbs is immense. Are their two worlds too dissimilar to merge or will they be able to bridge the distance with love?

www.cassidykent.com

Can one woman find true love in tea leaves? Or is it a tempest in a teacup? Bryn Tuttle lost everything due to her bad taste in men. Now she's starting over fresh. In the misty bluegrass hills of Kentucky, she finds a new job, apartment and friends. When a co-worker invites her yard-sale shopping one weekend, she decides to tag along, never realizing fate has something else in store. They discover a rare item—a mysterious, antique, fortune-telling teacup. Bryn never suspects that a single sip from the Cup of Fate will change her life, that her future is actually linked to the tea leaves that cling inside. But when she drinks from the cup and next awakens, she soon comprehends that nothing will ever be the same.........
www.cassandracurtis.com

Melanie goes to Hawaii on vacation with two major goals. To get a tan, and to have a fling. Then things take a twist--or at least her ankle does--and she finds herself in the care of a sexy doctor. One who's more than willing to show her his bedside manner.

www.shellistevens.com

And for something just a wee bit darker...

From a new master of horror comes an apocalyptic showdown between the residents of a secluded, rural town and the deadly evil that confronts them wherever they turn . . .
Evil Doesn’t Die
The cozy little town of Pine Deep buried the horrors of its past a long time ago. Thirty years have gone by since the darkness descended and the Black Harvest began, a time when a serial killer sheared a bloody swath through the quiet Pennsylvania village. The evil that once coursed through Pine Deep has been replaced by cheerful tourists getting ready to enjoy the country’s largest Halloween celebration in what is now called “The Spookiest Town in America.”
It Just Grows Stronger
But then—a month before Halloween—it begins. Unspeakably desecrated bodies. Inexplicable insanity. And an ancient evil walking the streets, drawing in those who would fall to their own demons and seeking to shred the very soul of this rapidly fracturing community. Yes, the residents of Pine Deep have drawn together and faced a killer before. But this time, evil has many faces—and the lust and will to rule the earth. This struggle will be epic. www.jonathanmaberry.com

I'll announce my blog contest winners next week. So, if you haven't already done so, you still have time to blog about Aurora's Passion to be entered to win the fabulous basket of Scandinavian chocolates. Details here.

What are you doing this weekend?

Yahoo vs. Google

2006-06-28T08:45:00.000-04:00

Author and publicity guru, Lisa Renee Jones has suggested that I start a newsletter. I know, you might be thinking, So? But seriously, LRJ telling me to start a newsletter is like Nora Roberts telling me to write with a Bic pen. I'm gonna do it!

So, I formed a Yahoo group last night. The thing is, when I'm asked to join a Yahoo group, I am immediately turned off. I think, Another Yahoo group? Sheesh! Not to mention how Yahoo eats my posts! And I don't join.

I love all things Google. I got my gmail, my google spreadsheet, google chat. I could form a Google group. But not everyone is into Google like that. Maybe I should just go with the flow and sign up with Yahoo. Or should I stick with Google?

What do you think?

The Three Faces of Bebe

2006-06-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

Frankly, I wasn't sure what to post today. Or even if I would post. It's not that I don't have anything to say, more like I have too much to say. I mean, there's three of me.

Fiction Writer Bebe says,"I've been promoting Aurora's Passion like crazy, but I am not sure I'm looking at every angle, so I'm taking a class this week on book promotions. When I'm not busy promoting, I've been researching Occupied Norway for the prequel to Aurora's Passion. And don't even get me started on my pitch for Red Sage or buying a new outfit for GH/Rita ceremony!"

Non-Fiction Writer Bebe says, "I'm completely in the weeds trying to get my research done for the non-fiction queries I sent out on last week!"

Wife & Mom Bebe says, "I have so much to do before we leave for North Carolina on Friday. I don't know how I'm going to do everything I need to, plus work full-time."

What's your week look like? How do you keep it all together?

I'm Doing the Happy Friday Dance!

2006-06-23T08:30:00.000-04:00

Remember the other day, when I wrote about my Aurora's Passion prequel? Well... I signed the contract to write a category length novel! The Wedding Policy is set in occupied Norway during World War II, and it is the story of Kris Anderssen's grandparents.

I'm posting a brand-new excerpt from Aurora's Passion so you can get to know Bestemor.

Aurora's Passion Excerpt
Copyright © 2006 Bebe Thomas

“So, tell me about your new young man. Tim, is it?”

Oh, crap. Kris was afraid this would come up. Ashamed, she bit her lip and tried to blink back the tears. “Oh Bestemor!” Kris wiped her eyes. “I've made such a mess of it.”

Kris took a sip from her cup and took a deep breath. “Tim is married.”
Bestemor gasped. “Married?”
Kris knew her grandmother would be disappointed in her. Good Norwegian girls did not sleep with married men.

“Yes. But I didn't know it," she explained. "Then his wife found out about us, and I got fired!” Kris braced herself for her grandmother's reaction, but it felt good to get that out.
“Hvem er fantastisk!”

It wasn't exactly the reaction, Kris was expecting. But then again her Norwegian was shaky.

“Did you just say, ‘That's fantastic’?”

“Yes, it is a blessing, Kattunge. A blessing from Freya.” Bestemor was positively beaming.

“Freya?” Kris raised an eyebrow. What was her grandmother talking about?

“Freya, the goddess of love. She has brought you back to Aurora to find your soul mate.” Bestemor clapped her hands together twice and said, “Gud vaere med deg!”

Praise the lord? Kris shook her head. “Bestemor, what are you talking about?”

“Freya. Freya brought you back here so you can find your true love when the Northern Lights dance in the sky.”

“Freya did?” Kris thought maybe she should call her grandmother's doctor because she had clearly lost her mind.

“There's an old saying in Norway. You'll know you've found your true love when you make love under the magic sky.”

Kris rolled her eyes. “That's just an old wives’ tale. It would be nice if it was true, though.”

So, whaddya think?

And don't forget, you still have time to enter my June Blog contest, but not much. Only 7 days left.

Spa Day

2006-06-21T20:11:00.000-04:00

I frequent a little salon/day spa in the neighborhood. Usually, I pop in to get my nails done or maybe a pedicure if I'm really treating myself. For Mother's Day, my hubby went to the salon and got me a gift card which I cashed in today on a "Sea Escape Stone Facial & Body Therapy Massage."

Doesn't this sound wonderful? "During this 90-minute treatment, various sized stones are used as massage implements and are placed on key pressure points on your body to relieve tension, while layers of sea oils and masks rejuvenate, tone and firm the skin for dramatic and long term results. The sea stones are used in conjunction with reflexology and lymphatic drainage for complete face and body stress relief. A relaxing foot treatment and hand massage complete the treatment releasing tension and stress, and improving overall well-being."

Well, it was fabulous! And to add to the today's fabulousness, (is that a word? - LOL) I received a gift basket full of organic beauty products made by my friend, MotherHerb. Hmmm. Maybe I'll give away some Spa Goodies for my July contest. What do you think? Do you like girlie stuff as much as I do?

(But don't forget my June contest is still going on... scroll down for info.)

Meet Snowball

2006-06-20T19:49:00.000-04:00

adopt your own virtual pet!

Do You Want Me to Seduce You?

2006-06-20T08:11:00.000-04:00

Your Seduction Style: Siren / Rake

You possess an unbridled sensuality that appeals to many.

The minute you meet anyone, you can make the crave you almost immediately.

You give others the chance to lose control with you... spiraling into carnal bliss.

A dangerous lover, you both fascinate and scare those you attract.

What Is Your Seduction Style?

I've Got a Secret

2006-06-17T22:27:00.000-04:00

Psst... I'm going to let you in on my little secret.

The contract is not signed yet, but I got the go ahead for a sequel to Aurora's Passion. A prequel, actually, and probably category novel length. I don't want to give too much away, because I'm in the planning stages. But... I can tell you it will be about Kris Anderssen's Bestemor during World War 2 in occupied Norway.

I'll also be divulging Bestemor's Secret Skillingsboller recipe. But here's a sneak peek for you:

Shilling buns (Skillingsboller)from Thinkquest.org

Shillingbun is a variety of the ordinary wheat bun, and this bun-recipe is a traditional Bergen recipe. The Shilling-buns taste delicious, a bit like cinnamon mini-rolls. In the old days, a shilling bun cost a (Norwegian) shilling, and that name has been kept, though the price has changed.

24 buns

1/2 cup margarine
1 3/4 cups milk
2 oz yeast
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp cardamom
3 1/2 cups of flour

Cinnamon
Sugar
Butter

Middle rack: 425°F, 10-12 minutes

1. Melt the margarine. Add the milk. Heat till body temerature (if it feels too warm, let it cool off a bit). Add the yeast and stir till it’s dissolved in the mixture.

2. Find a large bowl. Add the milk/margarine/yeast and then add the sugar, cardamom and flour. Stir as much as you can, mixing all the ingredients. Knead the dough till it’s smooth. If the dough feels too wet, add more flour. If it’s too dry, add some water.

3. Cover the bowl with a cloth, place it in a fairly warm and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes.

4. Roll the dough out to an oblong shape. Butter it. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.

5. Roll up. Divide the long, rolled-up dough into 20-30 pieces.

Place the buns on a cookie sheet like this:

Cover with a cloth and let the buns rise for a little while. Bake in the oven at 425°F for 10-12 minutes.

Don't forget if you blog about Aurora's Passion this month, you'll be entered in the Taste of Aurora's Passion Giveaway. Details here.

Have You Seen This Missing Child?

2006-06-16T22:23:00.000-04:00

Author Marjorie Jones' daughter, Staci, has been missing for days. If you have any information, please contact Marjorie Jones.

Waking The Shadows by Elisabeth Drake

2006-06-14T22:26:00.000-04:00

Another great read written by a friend of mine, Elisabeth Drake.

Arielle and Jackson are not your everyday couple. They are partners working for the FBI tracking demons and such, they are both commitment shy, and both can and will kick ass. Oh. And did mention, she's a witch and he's a vampire?

I really wasn't sure if Waking the Shadows would be my cuppa, you know. I mean, come on, I'm a contemporary romance kind of gal. Sure, I like my 'Splash of Enchantment', but just a splash, nothing over the top for me.

I've changed my mind. Elisabeth Drake blew me away. You've got to buy this book - it was smart and funny and realistic. Yes, realistic. It's just that good.

Waking the Shadows is available at Freya's Bower. And while you're there, check out my latest, Aurora's Passion.

And don't forget about my June Blog Contest. Scroll down for details.

Office Relations by Lia Sebastian

2006-06-13T20:49:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure of reading Office Relations by Lia Sebastian this weekend.

Sabrina Moore and Peter Merrill have been working on a special project together at the office. They are attracted to each other, but each is afraid of rejection. When they finally get together (on the conference table), the boss's secret agenda might tear them apart forever.

Lia Sebastian has captured the essence of modern romance in the workplace - complete with backroom politics. If you're in the mood for a sexy read, Office Relations will not disappoint. I'm looking forward to Ms. Sebastian's next offering.

For more information visit www.liasebastian.com.

And don't forget to scroll down to read about my June Blog Contest!

June Contests

2006-06-09T18:23:00.000-04:00

To celebrate the release of Aurora's Passion, I'm giving away this Frankie & Johnnie Essentials handbag. All you need to do to enter the contest is send me an email or post a comment on the blog. The purse would be fabulous with jeans or capris. It comes with a change purse, a folding umbrella and a hard eyeglass case.

And don't forget- if you let me know you blogged about Aurora's Passion, you'll also be entered in the Taste of Aurora's Passion giveaway.
LOTS of yummy goodness: Norwegian and Swedish chocolate, Anna's Thin cookies, Raspberry Drops, Sparkling Cider. It's a sampling of the best Scandinavian treats!

Thanks and good luck!

Aurora's Passion Gets 4 Stars from Romance-Central

2006-06-07T19:53:00.000-04:00

My first review is up on the net. Yay! Aurora's Passion got 4 stars.

Rene at Romance-Central says "It seems rare for an erotic story to have such a sweet feel to it... A charming story, Aurora's Passion is a quick and pleasant read......Ms. Thomas is a true romantic at heart."

Can you tell I'm thrilled? Stop by Romance-Central to read the complete text.

Aurora's Passion On Sale Now!

2006-06-03T07:25:00.000-04:00

I opened my email this morning and found out Aurora's Passion has hit the 'bookshelves'!

Blurb:
Kris Anderssen is having a bad week. She lost her dream job and her lover on the same day and is in danger of losing her swanky New York apartment. She's regrouping by spending the Thanksgiving holiday in Aurora, her hometown. It's anything but relaxing. Her grandmother won't stop talking about the Northern Lights, the goddess Freya, and Norwegian folklore. Plus, Kris is more conflicted than ever, finding herself caught in a love triangle between her hot former boyfriend and her sexy best friend. She has feelings for each man; how can she possibly choose between them?

Want to read more? Click here for a excerpt. Or here to buy the book. It will be the best $2.00 you spend all day!

2006-05-31T23:28:00.000-04:00

My fellow Freya's Bower Author and sister Romance Diva, Dayna Hart, has just released her first 'Bites', You Again.

Part I: Cherry
"Wild Cherry" is the music industry's newest wild child. Her attitude and outrageous behaviour hide a secret, one she intends to keep at all costs. One man, however, threatens everything. A reporter who wants to write the real story. Mac is the one man she shouldn't let past her defenses, and yet, she can't seem to keep him away.

Part II: Laurel
When he first walks into the bookstore-café, Laurel is drawn to Drex, though she couldn't explain why. The headaches begin soon after. She begins remembering things, though she can't tell if they're real, or simply the tortured imaginings of her mind. When she collapses at Drex's feet, she needs to learn the difference. Or die trying.

Rating: Sweet
Book Length: Bites
Price: $2.00

You can read an excerpt at www.freyasbower.com.

Hot, Hot, Hot

2006-05-29T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's hot in Philadelphia today. I've got to get dh to put the rest of the air conditioners in this week. Fortunately, we do have a/c in our bedroom. I miss central air!

I've spent most of the day out on the deck. We bought a new grill today and put it together. Made some turkey burgers. Listened to some tunes. Got Aurora's Passion excerpts ready for my chat on Literary Nymphs tomorrow night. Stop by if you can.

My first author chat. I'm totally nervous.

Congratulations to the summer music winners, Zinnia & Annalee. Thanks a bunch for hanging out with me this weekend. I'm thrilled to pieces - because of you, the blog party was a big success! And I hope you'll keep stopping by, I have more contests planned, and a FABULOUS prize to give away when Aurora's Passion is released.

And the Oscar Goes to...

2006-05-28T23:30:00.000-04:00

I'm running late on my post today. Sorry. Anyway, the spa gift set goes to Sela. Congratulations!

We went to the Pennsylvania State Fair today. I expected a huge midway, arts & crafts exhibits, and live music. Hmph! I got bumpkus! It was no better than a neighborhood carnival.

For those of you who are wondering, I wore sneakers.

Tomorrow, I'll announce the winners of the summer music CDs. Good luck to all.

It's a Zoo in Here

2006-05-27T20:59:00.000-04:00

The winner of the CD player is... Stacy Holmes. Congratulations.

Today, my family went to the Philadelphia Zoo. I bought a family membership last month thinking if we go a few times this summer it will pay for itself. You get some perks, too. Like free parking. The problem is ALL the lots were full by the time we got there. Well, we ended up parking in Fairmount Park a good three-quarters of a mile from the zoo entrance.

Once we got inside, we had a blast! The baby loved the elephants and the petting zoo. And then we had to walk back to the car. Uphill. Man was that hard. Especially in flip-flops. (I know, I know... poor planning on my part!)

Anyway, I was thinking, my aching feet could use a little pampering. So today, I'm giving away a spa gift set. It includes Eucalyptus Cream Bath, Body Lotion & Bath Salts, plus one of those massager thingies.

If you've commented or entered my other contests this weekend you're eligible to win this prize. And if you haven't entered yet, there's still time. Just leave me a comment (or send an e-mail, if you're shy) to enter, and I'll announce the winner tomorrow night.

Blog Party Madness

2006-05-26T17:51:00.000-04:00

TGIF! The party has officially started. Let's crank up the tunes! And to help you listen to your favorite music, I'm giving away a personal CD player.

It's easy to win, just answer this question: When is my birthday? (Answer can be found on my website!)

E-mail me with the answer by 5 p.m. EDT Saturday to be eligible to win the CD player. And you'll also be automatically eligible for the summer music giveaway on Memorial Day.

Now, let's boogie!

Memorial Day Blog Party

2006-05-24T23:26:00.000-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend. The unofficial start of summer. Surf, sand, and sea. I love summer, don't you? To celebrate, I'm having a blog party weekend.

That's right. A party on my blog. Woo hoo!

Since you can't have a party without music, I'm giving away summer music CDs.

Summer in the City definitely has a 70's vibe with classics such as Styx's Come Sail Away, Player's Baby Come Back, and Elton John's Rocket Man. Summer Splash is totally 80's - totally. Remember Jessie's Girl by Rick Springfield (a.k.a. Dr. Noah Drake)? How about I Ran (So Far Away) by Flock of Seagulls? Or my favorite, Manic Monday by the Bangles?

To enter the CD contest, just visit my website www.bebethomas.com/Contact.htm and fill out the web form.

And don't forget to stop back throughout the weekend. I've got lots of fun stuff planned and more party favors to give away.

Party Girl

2006-05-22T00:53:00.000-04:00

Well, the website is nearly done. Just need to check a few links and get the okay from my editor to post an excerpt. Hopefully, we will launch this week, and have the launch party Memorial Day weekend.

I have lots of fabulous prizes to give away! Hope to see you!

Getting Ready to Launch

2006-05-20T00:22:00.000-04:00

The new site is almost done. I'll be hosting an official launch party this week. Check back for your invitation - or what the hey - crash my party!!!!

My Cover

2006-04-24T22:04:00.000-04:00

I just got my cover for my Freya's Bower Bites mini-book! Oooh! I'm so excited!

Welcome to My Blog

2006-04-19T22:39:00.000-04:00

Hi. I'm Bebe Thomas, Freya's Bower author. I have two "Bites" coming out soon. I'm just setting up my blog here - website to come soon.